Meet Star Carter | Bridal & Editorial Hairstylist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Star Carter and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Star, what role has risk played in your life or career?
Risks…and taking them…is definitely scary, but how do you expect to grow sitting comfortably? Taking risks is something that I’ve actually struggled a good amount with in my adult life. I’ve always known that I wanted to be a hairstylist but, since graduating high school, was always too afraid to take the risk–in fear of it not being lucrative and because, during that time, society was definitely pushing the “go to college or you’ll be nothing” narrative. So, from high school, I went to uni for 3 years, for psychology…got bored, dropped out and continued working. From there, I went to school for Aesthetics. Although I graduated and got all of my certifications from that, I never went to Stateboard because it just didn’t feel right..So, at 22 I decided to just do it. It was the best decision I’d ever made for myself. After that, I found myself stuck at my first salon job with no growth, and very little opportunity for it, for years I was basically on autopilot. Within those years, I had numerous friends and family members begging me to get out and do my own thing because staying where I was wasn’t worth it…But yet again, I was scared to take that risk. So, after 6 or 7 years, in February of 2019, I decided that I could not take the complacency any longer and stepped out on faith. Then not even a month later, BOOM…COVID. Things were shutting down, wedding postponed, etc. It was definitely a kick in the chest, but I didn’t allow myself to regret my decision. I kept my faith and did better than I thought I would [businesswise]. Fast forward to today, I’m still very happy and proud of myself for taking the risks that I have thus far–they’ve always proven worthy.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I specialize in hairstyling, specifically bridal and editorial. It’s my favorite element to work in. Working weddings, doing bridal hair has been something that I’ve absolutely loved since I started. I did my first wedding right at the end of hair school and haven’t stopped since. It’s the same with editorial work, I loved it from the first shoot I did. I love the infectious energy of being on a [creative] set/shoot! Sometimes, I just let my mind go and allow my hands to just create. It’s a special thing, being able to do that.

My craft really comes from my heart and my goal is to keep it that way. This year, I’ve really become intentional about manifesting the type of clientele that I’d like to have. I’ve become intentional about what energy I bring to [potential] clients, as well.

One of the bigger lessons I’ve learned is to stop trying to make something fit, if it just doesn’t–whether it’s a client, and opportunity, whatever it is. It has definitely been difficult getting here, because when you are somewhat a novice at working for yourself, it can be difficult turning down opportunities but I feel like doing so has helped me better align myself with where I want to be/take my business.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Oh my goodness, this is a tough one.. I don’t go out much at all! I’m always asking friends for they’re suggestions. I live in the Loganville area so the majority of my time in the city is for work.

But, I would definitely try to get to the Garden Room because I’ve been wanting to go there myself..and the vibe looks super cute.
I’ve heard Le Bilboquet is great.
Sweet Stack and Cinnaholic are a go, though. I love those places. Ponce City Market would be an idea, too.

We’d be experiencing a lot of stuff for the first time together.. when I’m not working, I’m momming, at home with my family, or crafting.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
MY MOM. She was a single parent, in the Air Force, but always made time. I never felt like like I was without. She has supported my every endeavor. She is my biggest fan and biggest blessing. My fiance. He’s always pushing me to go harder. To try something new. To step out of my comfort zone. He’s all about pushing the limits, which isn’t something that I’d typically do on my own. I LOVE him for that. And no matter what, he will keep it real with me.

My closest colleague and one of my best friends, Yuliya Psareva. We go back to hair school. She has, without a doubt, blessed my life with her mentorship, her friendship, her support. She is a huge reason I was able to leave the salon I mentioned earlier. I cannot say enough good about this woman. I don’t know what I would do without her friendship!

Another close creative friend/photographer, Dalvin Adams. I’m sure he knows it, and when he reads this I’m sure his head will get a little bigger *haha* but, working with him has opened a lot of doors for me. I’m so thankful for his support.

And to all my family and friends that let me experiment on your head in my hair school days, I’m thankful for you.

Website: www.SCHair.co

Instagram: @SCHair.co

Image Credits
Dalvin Adams Hira Mashkoor Katherine Beasley Marcus + Bianca Inyang